Match Previews

Suffered major setback in the opener after early red card affected their display. Must-win game now. C. M. Sanchez suspended. The main left-back F. Fabra sidelined. J. Rodriguez and W. Barrios set to start.

Colombia were stunned by Japan at the start of the World Cup after their experienced holding midfielder Carlos Sanchez conceded a penalty inside three minutes and as a result also saw a straight red card. Despite fighting back to 1:1 in an impressive first half Los Cafeteros ran out of steam after the break and eventually lost the game 1:2.

James Rodriguez and Barrios came only off the bench in this first game after battling minor muscle issues prior to the game. Both of them failed to provide positive impact on the match. World Cup debutant Falcao looked very hungry though and he was Colombia’s best forward outlet.

Coach Pekerman knows that only wins in the remaining matches will guarantee his team’s place in the knockouts and in search of three points now he almost certainly will use James and Barrios from the off. The latter will replace the suspended Sanchez.

Mojica made his competitive debut for Colombia at left-back against Japan and he will be used from the off again as the main player in this positon Fabra sustained serious injury just before the start of the tournament and will be absent for months.

The only official match against an European side for Colombia in 21st century was at the start of the 2014 World Cup when Greece were trashed 3:0.